The unexplored wonders of Nigeria

The former capital of the nation houses its commercial and administrative centers on the Island comprising Ikoyi and Victoria Island which are linked to the rest of Lagos (Mainland) by the Third Mainland Bridge and the Eko Bridge. The many sites in the city include the National Museum at Onikan on Lagos Island houses numerous […]

The former capital of the nation houses its commercial and administrative centers on the Island comprising Ikoyi and Victoria Island which are linked to the rest of Lagos (Mainland) by the Third Mainland Bridge and the Eko Bridge.

The many sites in the city include the National Museum at Onikan on Lagos Island houses numerous exhibits of Nigeria’s ancient civilizations and history. It also has a craft center which gives opportunity o the bind and other handicaps to earn a livelihood.

There is also the Balogun and Idumota markets from where, every and anything can be got.

Another place of interest is the Marina and also the Ikoyi bay side which have gradually opened up to more tourist adventures. The many beaches offer bathing, although many have strong currents and bathers should not swim far from the shore, especially in Lagos.

A direct neighbour to Lagos is the famous and ancient city of Ibadan reputable for its many ‘red’ roofs and Nigeria’s oldest university. It is also said to be the largest city in the West Africa with the biggest market in Nigeria.

It is also a convenient link to other historic and tourist towns like Oshogbo and Ife amongst others.

Ibadan, the site of the capital of the old Yoruba Empire still holds some of her old but stylish Portuguese-styled houses.

Oshogbo is home of the renowned Oshogbo art school and is home to the famous Osun grove and shrines, of Osun the fertility goddess. It was also the home to famous keeper of the shrines, Susan Wenger until her death.

 In August every year, it plays host to a multitude of people from all over the world who come to celebrate the Osun Oshogbo festival.

Ile-Ife, the ancient name of the town of Ife, is described as the cradle of Yoruba culture and civilisation. In the university town there is the Ife Museum, which houses sculptural pieces of that have been subjects of debates and write ups over the years. There are fine bronze and terracotta sculptures dating back to the 13th century as well as a centre for batik and tie—dye fabrics.

Until recently, Benin City has been described as a town for retirees and civil servants. But the metropolis is fast developing and opening its doors to tourism and historic appreciation.

With its historic moat walling the city, the National Museum located in the heart of the city on Ring Road, is home to many royal art, bronze and wood carvings amongst other master pieces.

With a yet to be beaten record, Calabar has remained the love of many come December of every year. It is surrounded by other towns with just as much history and culture like Ikot Ekpene known for unique raffia works and wood doors.

Also, is not too far away is Oron with an historic display of artefacts from the area in its museum and Ikom which is home to the monoliths set in circles of the state and neighbour to Cameroon.

Still considered to be the largest of the ancient Hausa cities, Kano is Nigeria’s third-largest city. Founded about 1000 years ago, and serving as a strategic point on the trans-Saharan trade routes, the ancient town walled around still remains and gives the city a medieval atmosphere.

Kurmi Market is popular for a variety of the embroidered Fulani horse blankets and decorations used at festivals. Also worthy of viewing are the famous dye pits (Kofar Mata), which are said to be the oldest in Africa, are still in use.

The Emir’s Palace is a regularly visited location as it is an outstanding example of Hausa architecture. The city has many colonial-style structures.

Jos in spite of recent developments still remains a favourite destination for local and international visitors. Set 3, 900 feet above sea level, its weather is major inspiration for many to visit. The Jos Museum has a large collection of pottery from all over the country, and the nearby Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture holds a collection of full-size replicas representing different styles of Nigerian architecture, including the Kano Wall, Katsina Palace and Emir’s Palace in Zaria. The zoo and Assob falls are also great destinations.

Sallah is a festival in Maiduguri which many regardless of the intensity of the hot weather will not miss for the world. During this season newcomers and first timers get a first hand opportunity to have an experience with the Borno horsemen who take delight and pride in demonstrating their equestrian prowess.

An added attraction is the Lake Chad; although is flat and prone to flooding during and after the rains is gradually gaining popularity amongst tourists, ornithologists and nature enthusiasts. Other striking and fascinating sceneries are the mountains best appreciated from Biu and towards the Cameroon border.

Yankari National Park/Game Reserve recently began to regain its glory with facilities being put in place to bring it up to standard. Home to a wide variety of animals and their species including birds, Yankari is a naturally endowed tourist attraction; although some say, “Nigeria’s most scenic national park, is the Gashaka Game Reserve near Yola, which also provides opportunities to view birds and animals especially for some highly endangered species.”